Liverpool cult hero Wataru Endo revealed that the training intensity at the club is equivalent to any Premier League game. Endo provided some key details about his time at Liverpool so far, explaining how he adapted to the Premier League.
Former legendary manager Jurgen Klopp signed Endo from Stuttgart as part of his midfield revamp in the summer of 2023. The 31-year-old’s singing surprised the football world due to his lack of reputation compared to his age and vast experience.
Liverpool faced more criticism over the transfer due to the late timing of the deal after the Moises Caicedo saga. The Reds lost two transfer targets Romeo Lavia and Caicedo to Chelsea after losing Aurelien Tchouameni in the previous window.
The sale of Fabinho demanded a new number six with many fans hoping for a younger and well-known transfer signing. Klopp’s high-line direct attacking style of play further required a defensive midfielder, capable of covering the defensive flanks and channels.
The 31-year-old used the early part of the 2023-24 season to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League. Nevertheless, Endo immediately formed a formidable partnership with Alexis Mac Allister when Liverpool struggled with an injury crisis last season.
The Japan captain earned big praise from the Kopites and the Premier League fanbase for his relentless and aggressive defending. Endo’s influence helped Liverpool win the Carabao Cup last season and proved that reputation means nothing in football.
Speaking in episode three of the Red Machine Podcast, released by Kodansha (via Liverpoolfc.com), Endo revealed how the training in Liverpool is parallel to any Premier League game which helped him adapt faster. He said:
“The Premier League is very hard. It took me some time to adapt but here I play in Liverpool, so even in training the intensity is so high. We have a lot of quality players. I think it’s also a good thing for me to adapt to the Premier League as well. We train like we play in the Premier League every day – I think that made us and me stronger.”
The Japan captain has struggled to receive significant game time under the new head coach Arne Slot but remains professional. Endo has delivered fantastic performances for Slot despite the new tactical style of play favouring a defensive midfielder of a different profile.
The 31-year-old has also played as a centre-back under Slot, maintaining his high level of performance for the team. His willingness to help his teammates and the club justifies the love and admiration that Endo has earned from the fanbase.
Speaking about his role for Liverpool under Slot, Endo highlighted the requirements and things he excels at. He added:
“I think defensively it’s about getting the ball back and trying to have good organisation in midfield. I think that’s my style. I would always try to maximise our team. I always try to help my teammates play well. I think that’s also my strong point. If I play in the number six [role], I need to do the dirty job, of course! I need to have a good connection with defenders, but also help my teammates. If we want to be top players, you have to be both defensive and offensive as well. Of course, I need to defend well at least, but I always try to make a difference. I try to play very simple; I don’t feel like I can be more creative, but I try to play simple and play forward and try to change sides.”
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Endo will play a critical role for Liverpool in the games ahead as they are still fighting in every competition. The Reds will face PSV Eindhoven in the last Champions League group-stage game with the potential for the Japan captain to feature as part of the rotation policy.
